When it comes to handling litigation, the process can be overwhelming and complex. While being able to handle the entire process alone is ideal, this is often not realistic and can ultimately harm the outcome of your case. The typical reasons behind why people often refrain from calling a lawyer have to do with hoping that the problem will just go away on its own or cost worries. Unfortunately, legal problems rarely improve with time, and the longer time passes the more problems that can occur.
Evidence Can Disappear or Weaken
One of the biggest risks of waiting to call an attorney is losing essential evidence in the case. In accident cases, surveillance footage could be automatically deleted within a few days/weeks of the event. Physical evidence can also be repaired, cleaned up, or destroyed. In business disputes things like emails and digital records might not be properly kept unless extra steps are taken in the initial stages. Witness memories can also fade overtime which makes their testimony less valid in the courtroom.
The sooner an attorney gets involved, the sooner the proper steps can be taken to preserve all of these things. This could include sending preservation letters, securing documentation, and interviewing witnesses. Acting as early as possible can help make sure that all facts related to the case are available when the matter the most.
Deadlines Are Strict and Shorter Than People Think
Legal matters are usually given strict deadlines that many people underestimate or fail to consider. Statutes of limitation set concrete time limits for filing things like lawsuits and motions, and filing claims or appeals for compensation cases tend to have even shorter deadlines.
Missing a deadline can permanently bar your claim, despite how strong the evidence you had might have been. Courts are rarely ever known to make any exceptions just because someone was unaware of the timeline. Consulting an attorney helps to allow you to understand what deadlines apply to your specific situation and helps to enforce filings being done on time.
The Other Side is Already Preparing
While you could still be deciding how to handle your case, the opposing party might be already preparing to build their defense against you. Insurance companies, employers and general opposing parties in cases usually consult attorneys right away. They may start gathering documentation, statements from witnesses, and also focusing in on their legal strategy.
Delaying obtaining legal representation can create a harsh imbalance between sides. The other side could paint the picture that you both had the right amount of time to respond adequately. Having counsel involved early helps level that playing field so that your side of the story is properly documented.
Early Mistakes Are Hard to Undo
Decisions that are made in the early stages of a case can have long lasting impacts. Accepting a settlement offer too soon or jumping to any conclusions can ultimately weaken your position. In litigation matters, failing to raise the right objections or preserve issues can also limit any future legal options you may have.
Once certain rights are waived or agreements are signed, reversing those actions could prove to be extremely difficult, or even impossible in certain instances. Seeking the right legal guidance before making any of these important decisions can frame your case in the best light possible.
Early Legal Guidance Provides Clarity and Strategy
Legal disputes are usually complex and emotionally stressful. Early consultation with an attorney is what provides clarity about your rights, limits potential risks, and gives you your available options. Don’t wait to react to problems as they come up, be proactive. This is the best way to give yourself a clear plan.
An experienced attorney can evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case and develop the right path forward. Duff Law in Grand Rapids is here to help. Make sure you reach out for your free consultation as soon as possible.